Public support for EU membership has reached record levels across Europe, according to the latest Eurobarometer survey. An unprecedented 74% of EU citizens believe their country benefits from being part of the Union – the highest figure since the survey began in 1983. In Poland, that figure is even higher at 84%, with citizens recognizing the EU’s contribution to security, job opportunities, and economic growth. Despite 21 years of Polish membership, experts say continued education about the EU remains essential.
“Poles have consistently supported EU membership since the very beginning,” said Witold Naturski, Head of the European Parliament Office in Poland, in an interview with Newseria.
“The 2003 referendum showed strong support, but today it’s even higher – by 10 to 20 percentage points in many polls. A clear majority of Poles want us to remain in the EU.”
Benefits Seen Clearly in Poland
The Eurobarometer shows that 84% of Poles see EU membership as beneficial. According to respondents, the greatest advantages include:
- New professional opportunities
- The EU’s role in peacekeeping and security
- Economic development
- Better living standards
- Enhanced international cooperation
A 2023 CBOS survey showed 77% of Poles supported continued membership. Benefits most often cited include EU funding and freedom of movement, both for people and goods within the single market.
“The single market is perhaps the most important but often overlooked benefit,” Naturski noted.
“It allows Polish producers to sell their goods in any other EU country as if selling locally – that’s nearly half a billion consumers. Most of our exports go to EU markets.”
According to the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy, Poland’s exports increased sixfold between 2004 and 2023 – from €60 billion to €350 billion – with EU-bound exports jumping from €45 billion to €262 billion. Poland is now a top EU supplier in sectors such as auto parts, batteries, TVs, furniture, and cosmetics.
Economic Growth Tied to EU Integration
Poland’s integration into the EU single market has been a key driver of GDP growth. Since joining the EU, the country’s economy has doubled, with a cumulative GDP growth of 99% – half of which is directly attributed to EU membership. Poland achieved the third-highest cumulative GDP increase among all EU members. GDP per capita has also improved significantly, rising from 50% of the EU average in 2004 to 80% in 2023.
“The billions in EU Cohesion Funds have modernized Poland’s infrastructure. Just look at our roads,” Naturski added.
“And let’s not forget the personal benefits we all enjoy – such as travel without borders, free roaming, and the European Health Insurance Card.”
EU Unity in Times of Global Turmoil
Against a backdrop of geopolitical instability, 89% of Europeans believe that greater EU unity is essential to face global challenges. Additionally, 66% want the EU to play a larger role in protecting citizens from international crises and security threats.
“Until recently, EU unity was seen as economic and market-based,” said Naturski.
“But now the EU is funding military aid to a non-member country like Ukraine. That would have been unthinkable a few years ago.”
Despite widespread support, 8% of Poles still believe EU membership brings no benefits, and 12% are unsure – indicating a need for better education about the EU’s role and impact.
Interactive Learning Through Europa Experience
The Europa Experience centers aim to fill that gap through modern, interactive education. Located in cities across the EU, including Warsaw, the centers help visitors understand how the EU works, its goals, and how it impacts citizens.
“These are not traditional classrooms. They use digital tools to encourage interaction and engagement,” said Aleksandra Klimczyk, coordinator of the Europa Experience center in Warsaw.
“Young people especially need to be reminded that things like open borders and no roaming fees were not always a given.”
Visitors can explore a 360-degree immersive cinema, learn how EU laws are made, or simulate being an MEP in an educational role-play. The exhibits are available in all official EU languages and emphasize how the EU is addressing issues both globally and locally.
Klimczyk stressed the importance of bringing this type of learning beyond capital cities.
“We need more centers like this in smaller cities, too. People should understand just how important our EU membership is.”
Celebrating Europe Day
This message is especially timely during Europe Day, held annually on May 9 to mark the Schuman Declaration of 1950 – the founding moment of what would become the EU. Across Poland and other EU member states, public events and open days at EU institutions offer citizens a chance to reflect on the benefits of European integration.
